Billed as a ‘multi-experiential’ space, Chameleon is a London venue which finds its home in the dramatic surrounds of the Grade I listed One Marylebone, a former church designed by Sir John Soane. As far as multi-faceted venues go, Chameleon surely takes the biscuit. The space, and bear with us here, comprises an alfresco restaurant, private dining greenhouses, a makeshift fitness studio, an art gallery and a live music area within the main church which features multi-sensory elements and 3D visuals.
If you are confused by all of the fluff, we will strive to keep things simple by explaining more about the restaurant itself. Chameleon’s ‘dining room’ in fact consists of an alfresco garden lounge, plus nine individually styled greenhouses, which can seat parties ranging from small groups of four up to larger groups of 30 for a semi-private dining experience. The design element of the greenhouses evolves with the seasons, so expect botanically inspired interiors during spring, replaced by tropical and beachy vibes in the summer months.
The kitchen here is led by Israeli chef Elior Balbul, who oversees a menu of Tel Avivian sharing plates. On the menu, expect to find dishes such as Yemen brioche challah, deconstructed falafel and aubergine carpaccio. For meat and fish lovers meanwhile, there is shrimp shish Barak, Morrocan octopus and charcoal-grilled lamb sirloin with cabbage gratin. To help wash it all down, pair your meal with signature Chameleon cocktail The Rimon, a freshly squeezed pomegranate Margarita with a twist.
On warmer nights, guests can make use of the alfresco lounge, coined ‘God’s Garden’. The space on the west side of the building’s exterior is a flower market curated by Jason Poole & Alexandra Watson, split between casual lounge seating and dining tables and serving a menu of cocktails and mezze plates designed by chef Balbul.